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Diageo jobs
03/07/2009
Working together is the best way to make a case against job cuts proposed by Diageo - both in Kilmarnock and across Scotland, John Swinney said today.
The Finance Secretary was speaking following meetings in Kilmarnock with Diageo, Scottish Enterprise, East Ayrshire Council and local politicians.
Mr Swinney said that those opposed to Diageo's plans, which would see the closure of the Kilmarnock facility along with net job losses of up to 500 across Scotland, had agreed to join forces to put together an alternative business proposal based on access to the financial information behind the company's original decision.
John Swinney said:
"This morning I have participated in two meetings to address the situation at Diageo. First of all with the management of the plant involving Des Browne MP, Willie Coffey MSP, myself and the leadership of Scottish Enterprise. Subsequently, I had a discussion with East Ayrshire Council and Scottish Enterprise.
"I can say that we are determined to put forward a cohesive argument and initiatives that provide for an alternative to the proposals that Diageo has set out. We want to ensure that the proposals put forward by Diageo are not implemented and that we change their minds.
"We have also agreed to utilise the financial information behind the proposals promised to us by Diageo to put forward an alternative proposition. This was an issue raised by the First Minister with Paul Walsh, the Chief Executive of Diageo in their discussions since the announcement was made, during which the company promised to engage in a genuine consultation as they move forward.
"We hope these actions will help preserve and prolong the strong relationship between the people of Kilmarnock and the Scotch Whisky industry - as embodied by Diageo's presence in the town. We want to make sure that that industry continues to be successful in Kilmarnock and delivers benefits to the local economy for many years to come."